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Board suspends annual 5% stipend increase amid district fiscal review
Summary
Trustees voted to suspend a 5% pay increase for board members that had been scheduled to take effect, a symbolic move designed to show leadership while the district addresses its budget shortfall.
The Santa Rosa City Schools Board voted on Oct. 8 to suspend a scheduled 5% increase to board member stipends that had been approved earlier in the year. The suspension is temporary and the board said it was intended as a symbolic demonstration of shared sacrifice while district staff pursue budget reductions to address the current shortfall.
The motion to suspend the 5% increase passed in a roll call vote (8–1). Trustee Omar Medina voted for the motion; Trustee Medina later registered the lone recorded “no” vote when the roll call was completed. Board members discussed the administrative and symbolic implications of the change. Trustee Katrina Jenkins argued that the board should “lead by example” while the district asks employees and community partners to accept reductions; other board members noted that individual trustees retain the right to decline their stipend if they choose.
Board President McNally and other members emphasized that the suspension will be reflected administratively and that it does not immediately eliminate other district costs. The action directs staff to implement the suspension and to note the suspension in board compensation records so that the board can revisit compensation later if circumstances change.
Ending: The suspension is in effect until the board takes further action. Trustees said they will continue to review district spending and will return to compensation policy only after additional fiscal measures are considered.
